Care and Maintenance

Woodwork care and maintenance guide

Wood absorbs and releases moisture (humidity) as the environment changes, especially seasonally. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we see some of the largest swings in average humidity throughout the year. In the winter we might see humidity levels of 85% and 45% during summer months.

Wood is composed of cells that run lengthwise, like straws, which allow moisture to move in and out more easily at the ends where these cells are exposed. The exact amount of moisture absorption can vary based on factors like the species of wood, the conditions it’s exposed to, and how it’s been treated or finished. However, it’s generally recognized that the end grain of wood can absorb moisture up to several times faster than the face or edge grains. This characteristic is crucial to consider in woodworking and construction to prevent issues like splitting and warping due to uneven moisture distribution.

Interior Doors and Trim

Initial Steps After Installation:

Sealing: Ensure all six sides of doors and trim are sealed with high-quality wood finish to prodect against moisture penetration. Wood color will fade with time and UV exposure. To help mitigate fading, it is recommended you add pigment to the finish (recommend 4-5 ounces of pigment per gallon).

Inspect Regularly: Check for any signs of damage. Especially in high traffic areas where trim may be subjected to more extreme wear and tear. Its not uncommon to see corners where vacuum cleaners rub agains the base moulding wearing the finish off over time.

Routine Maintenance:

Scotts Liquid Gold Wood Cleaner: Does a nice job of polishing and protecting stained and lacquered wood surfaces. *Not to be used on painted surfaces.

Cleaning: Wipe with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust. Use a mild wood cleaner for tougher stains, avoiding harsh chemicals.

Seasonal Inspection: Check for gaps that may have opened up from seasonal changes in the environment. You might find gaps have opened up. You can fill gaps with “DAP Blend Sticks” that make color matching easy. This works great for cosmetic repairs to wooden surfaces. For painted trim, DAP Alex Flex is a good choice for filling gaps.

Touch-Up: Reapply finish or paint to any scratched or worn areas to maintain protection against moisture. If stained and lacquer surface, you can use “Deft Clear Wood Finish” to fix the top clear coat. *Not applicable to painted surfaces.

Environmental Tips:
Maintain stable indoor humidity (35-40%) by installing an HVAC Humidifier. This will stabilize the wood and prevent extreme expansion and contraction issues. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight. You can install window tint in areas where direct sunlight may cause wood to fade or yellow.

Refinishing:

Sand lightly and apply a fresh coat of paint, stain, or clear finish every 3-5 years, depending on exposure to the elements.

WOOD SIDING

Initial Steps After Installation:

Proper Sealing: All six sides of each board should have been properly sealed prior to installation. If for whatever reason, you notice end cuts or ripped boards are not sealed, do so immediately after install to ensure the integrity of the wood fiber. If any nails have driven too deep into the wood, make sure to seal those areas because they can present issues down the line.

Avoid direct contact: Wood siding and trim should not make direct contact with cement or metal trim because moisture can transfer from one to the other. These areas are more susceptible to rot, decay, mold growth, and structural degradation over time. In addition, corrosion and staining of the wood can happen when in contact with certain metals, especially if moisture is present. To prevent these issues, barriers such as flashing, membranes, or physical spacers are often used between wood and these materials that can act as a barrier.

Routine Maintenance:

Cleaning:Use a garden hose or pressure washer on a low setting to remove dirt. Use a soft-bristle brush and a mild detergent for tough spots.

Inspection: Check annually for cracks, peeling paint, or signs of rot. Address any issues immediately.

Mildew Removal: Gently scrub affected areas with a soft bristle brush and rinse thoroughly.

Environmental Tips:
Trim nearby vegetation to prevent moisture retention and encourage airflow. Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from siding.

Refinishing:

Reapply paint or stain every 3-7 years depending on exposure to the the elements. A good test to see how robust your finish is holding up, use a spray bottle to shower a section of the siding, you should see the water bead or sheet off of the finish. If you find the water is penetrating the surface of the wood you should apply a maintenance coat.

General Wood Maintenance Tips for All Products:

Avoid Excessive Moisture: Wipe spills promptly to avoid water damage or staining.

UV Protection: Use UV-resistant finishes or shades to reduce the effects of sunlight.

Seasonal Adjustments: Keep wood products away from direct heat sources, such as radiators, to prevent drying and cracking. Recommend keeping the climate at a constant 35%-40% relative humidity.

Professional Help: For significant repairs or refinishing, consult a professional to avoid further damage.

By following these guidelines, your wood doors, siding, and mouldings will retain their beauty and functionality for years to come. For specific product recommendations or advice, consult the manufacturer or a trusted woodwork professional.